Lead dance teacher Wei Yujie summarized the three major challenges in teaching — not being able to hear the music, lack of dance training and difficulty grasping rhythm. "Each required patience to overcome," Wei said.

Since their ears couldn't perceive sound, they focused on making their eyes their "second pair of ears".

"The students perceive the rhythm by observing the speed of the gestures. When they can't see the instructions during complex sequences, they rely on their peripheral vision to imitate their classmates, reminding each other and supporting each other," Wei said. Wei teared up when speaking about the girls' efforts and hard work. "Watching them give their all for their dreams reminds me of when I was training, covered in injuries but never thinking about giving up," she said.

Fu Jinwei, principal of the school, said that the preparation for Steaming Happiness began in July last year and was a collaborative effort between grassroots cultural workers, deaf individuals and special education teachers.

"Dance is a shining name card for our school. The school's dance team has won numerous national awards in the past two decades. This Star Award is the greatest affirmation of the children's efforts," he said.

"All of our students have severe or profound hearing loss. ... We hope to use platforms like dance to help children find their value, so that they can be self-sufficient when they enter society in the future."

Lyu Peipei contributed to this story.

Contact the writers at zhuxingxin@chinadaily.com.cn